Telephoto lenses are systems used for taking photographs from a long distance away. With SLR cameras, you need to attach a special lens, but other types of cameras usually have a telephoto function.
One of the most important things to remember when using a telephoto lens or function is that any slight movement when taking the photo can result in a blurred image. Therefore, it's best to use a tripod and a shutter release. Any movement is amplified when looking through the view finder of a
camera using a telephoto lens. The simple act of pressing the shutter on
your camera will cause even a tripod mounted camera and lens to shake
when photographing a distant subject. To minimize camera shake use a
shutter release. Quite simply a shutter release is a shutter release
button on an extension cord. Minimizing movement of your camera and lens
while mounted on a tripod will reduce unintended bluring of your photo. (from here)
I didn't use either a tripod or a shutter release in these two shots, but I balanced the camera carefully on the edge of a fence or by gripping my arms tightly into my body to keep the camera as still as possible. I was pleased with the results even though they could have been much better. I'm still learning!
Another trick in using a telephoto lens is to tightly frame your subject. In this way, you can highlight details that you might not otherwise be able to capture. This is great if you're trying to photograph any type of wildlife, be it bears or birds. Notice how I was able to capture the details of this crane's feathers, beak, and eyes.
I thought you might like to see a few more shots I've taken using my telephoto lens - some from trips I've taken and some from around home.
I always associate it with spies taking pictures of Soviet agents.
ReplyDeleteROG, ABC Wednesday team
I use your trick of balancing the camera on something. Since I've had a point and shoot, I haven't had a separate telephoto lens or a tripod. I kind of miss those days of my old 35mm camera, but the easy to use digital is much easier to take everywhere. - Margy
ReplyDeleteNice photos, Leslie. Love the ducks.
ReplyDeleteThe beach photo looks very familiar. The puddles left by low tides always provides such wonderful subject matter for taking pictures. These lens sure do allow for wonderful close ups. Looking at the couple having a quite moment, it is nice to see genuine warmth between people … even when they think no one is looking.
ReplyDeleteGreat shots. I used to use a tripod back in my 35 mm camera days but haven't with my digital camera. Carver, ABC-Wed. Team
ReplyDeleteWhen I worked in that field - years before digital photography - our professional opinion was, if it's worth taking it's worth using a tripod.
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ReplyDeleteI love that bird with red head.
ReplyDeleteTug of War
I should definitely use a tripod when I use my telephoto...but it takes time to set up and I'm afraid I'll miss my shot. :)
ReplyDeleteYou are very successful for your photos are brilliant!
ReplyDeleteWil,ABC Team.
terrific lesson on telephoto lens. i should get one :)
ReplyDeleteWhat lovely photos! Who is the woman with the boy? It is such a charming, warm photo.
ReplyDeleteOh how fun to meet Denise in person. I've met serveral blogger friends now in person, and it's so fun. In fact, this week a blog friend Sue (Photowantabe) and her huband will join us at Lake Tahoe for a day of visiting.
ReplyDeleteOh your photos are fabulous, you are learning quite well indeed. The first photo you showed in so sweet--looks like hes catching a few winks.
ReplyDeleteAnn
Wish I could be that good in photography, you are getting so good Leslie.
ReplyDeleteTravels & Wandering
Rose, ABC Wednesday Team
I love my long lens too, - I am behind you in learning, Leslie, but occasionally get a photo that delights me.
ReplyDeleteI use a telephoto as well, and appreciated all your tips. You are getting some very colourful and interesting pictures. I especially enjoyed the Snowy Owl. I saw them in Delta, but was upset with the many people who disturbed them by going too close. Your image looks like you stayed on the dyke.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful bird shots!
ReplyDeleteI want a telephoto too. I was secretly snapping someone and didn't want him to know.
ReplyDeleteGreat captures!
ReplyDeleteI know I should use a tripod too and a shutter release would help, but sometimes its just too much stuff to carry.
ReplyDeleteLove your shots and the variety.
I must rely on my camera's zoom feature, but I do love a telephoto photo.
ReplyDeleteI looovveeee my telephoto lens, but you're so right about the camera shake. There's just so many times when you simply can't take time to set up a tripod! That's where "unsharp mask" becomes an invaluable tool in PhotoShop.
ReplyDeleteWhat is the first bird? He looks to be napping peacefully!
ReplyDeleteI do like nice clear crisp sharp pictures, especially of wild life.
ReplyDeleteLeslie, found you at ABC. Love not only the photos and description of the telephoto lens, but all the "t" words you managed to slip in there!
ReplyDeleteThe mama and baby duckling were my favorite. Probably because we have rivers and canals here in Madison, WI, and I feed them organic duck food from the pet store! Peace, Amy, and here's mine:
http://sharplittlepencil.com/2012/05/31/the-troubadour-abc-weds-thurs-think-tank/
Thank goodness for release shutters. Your samples are amazing; I love them all.
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